Attorney I, Public Defender

This is professional legal work representing defendants, who are financially unable to hire private counsel, in legal proceedings. A position in this class conducts research into, prepares and presents cases, and may oversee the work of clerical support staff. A position in this class differs from those in related classes in the assignment of civil and criminal cases, and the specialized clientele served. A position in this class reports directly to an appointed official at the department head level.

Receives criminal case assignments from members of the judiciary, office management or other sources; determines issues being raised, secures additional information from client if necessary, and identifies further courses of action; interviews witnesses, prepares motions and conducts legal and other research; interviews involved individuals both within and outside of the law enforcement field, assembles records and completes case development; prepares and submits lists of witnesses to be subpoenaed for trial; coordinates case preparation and presentation with others, including the judiciary, opposing counsel, and similar parties.

Confers with County probation personnel; advises, counsels and consults with same and judicial personnel regarding the initiation and disposition of matters affecting juveniles; prepares written opinion, memorandum or other documentation of assistance and advice; represents the County in the adjudication and disposition of juvenile cases in court; coordinates efforts with those of other involved legal and/or administrative staff.

Attends various courts for arraignments, probation hearings, pretrial and post trial motions and sentencing; confers with and negotiates settlements with opposing lawyers; may make specific work assignments to clerical support positions.

Performs related work as required.

Thorough knowledge of Federal, State and local statutes, laws, precedents, principles and practices governing and/or affecting criminal law.

Thorough knowledge of the statutes, regulations, operations and structure governing judicial procedure and rules of evidence.

Thorough knowledge of the methods and techniques of legal research, pleading, and procedural forms and practices, including terminology, commonly employed in the preparation and presentation of criminal cases.

Skill in preparing and presenting a variety of criminal court cases.

Ability to analyze, interpret, and apply legal research methods, techniques and results to case preparation and related legal work.

Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with associates, defendants, representatives of judicial and other government agencies, and members of the bar and the judiciary.

Education equivalent to completion of a law degree program.

One to two years experience in legal practice which has involved criminal case preparation and/or presentation work.

Or any equivalent combination of acceptable training and experience which has provided the knowledge, skills and abilities cited above.

Admission to the Pennsylvania Bar.